As avid travelers at Travelzoo, we cherish top "best-of" lists from trusted sources like Condé Nast Traveler. We're especially excited when they sync perfectly with our exclusive deals—as in their Readers' Choice Awards for the Best Small Cities in the US.
This curated guide pairs CNT's reader favorites with outstanding Travelzoo offers, plus insider tips from our expert staff for an authentic experience.
15. Santa Barbara
Recognized for: Wineries, gardens, and celebrity residents (like Jennifer Lopez and Steven Spielberg).
Travelzoo tips: Savor the Mediterranean charm—red-tiled roofs, arched architecture, and vibrant sidewalk cafés along State Street.
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14. Newport, RI
Recognized for: Epic coastal walks and sunset drinks amid Gilded Age mansions.
Travelzoo tips: Uncover why this historic gem remains so vibrant and captivating.
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13. Palm Springs
Recognized for: Antique shops, mid-century modern design, and proximity to Joshua Tree National Park.
Travelzoo tips: Ride the world's largest rotating tram car for breathtaking 2.5-mile vistas.
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12. Napa, California
Recognized for: Public art, Michelin-starred dining at
La Toque, and abundant vineyards.
Travelzoo tips: Enjoy the ultimate designated driver tour with stunning views, gourmet bites, and local wines.
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11. Portland, Maine
Recognized for: Revitalized waterfront, boutique hotels, and exceptional food—named
Bon Appétit's 2018 Restaurant City of the Year.
Travelzoo tips: Explore Casco Bay's 140+ islands by ferry or yacht, many pristine and uninhabited.
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10. Key West
Recognized for: Six-toed cats at Hemingway's home, snorkeling at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, hogfish sandwiches at
Hogfish Bar, and key lime pie at
Blue Heaven.
Travelzoo tips: Dive into Duval Street and Mallory Square's live music, frozen drinks, and sunset festivities.
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9. Greenville, SC
Recognized for: Farm-to-table dining and 23 acres of scenic parks downtown.
Travelzoo tips: Discover European flair at the local market, bakeries, and biergartens (home to BMW and Michelin U.S. HQ).
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8. Asheville, NC
Recognized for: World-class microbreweries, the grand
Biltmore Estate, and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Travelzoo tips: Hike to waterfalls featured in
The Hunger Games and
The Last of the Mohicans.
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7. Monterey
Recognized for: The world-renowned aquarium and lively
Cannery Row dining scene.
Travelzoo tips: Admire panoramic views from
Point Sur Lighthouse.
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6. Sedona
Recognized for: Red-rock formations, pine forests, and stellar night skies.
Travelzoo tips: Soar via hot air balloon for unparalleled wilderness perspectives.
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5. Sarasota
Recognized for: Upscale, unique lodgings beyond typical beach resorts; Sarasota Opera and Ringling Circus Museum.
Travelzoo tips: Relax on powdery Lido or Siesta Key beaches; kayak mangrove trails.
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4. Alexandria, Virginia
Recognized for: Old Town's galleries, preserved rowhouses, and
Gadsby's Tavern, frequented by Founding Fathers.
Travelzoo tips: Hop the free trolley to explore historic King Street's eats, shops, and sights.
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3. Savannah
Recognized for: Moss-draped oaks, cobblestone streets, and horse-drawn carriages past eerie, beautiful homes.
Travelzoo tips: Visit the sprawling Victorian Bonaventure Cemetery, iconic from
Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.
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2. Santa Fe
Recognized for: High-desert culture (250+ galleries, Spanish colonial churches,
Georgia O'Keeffe sites), adobe architecture, and innovative Southwestern cuisine.
Travelzoo tips: Hike photogenic trails like
Tent Rocks.
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1. Charleston, South Carolina
Recognized for: Diverse Southern cuisine (BBQ, seafood, Lowcountry), stunning mansions, chic street style—and 8 years at #1.
Travelzoo tips: Kayak Shem Creek amid dolphins, manatees, with views of downtown, Fort Sumter, Ravenel Bridge, and shrimping boats.
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Need more inspiration? Explore our Top 20 Deals of the Week.
